Blue-based Theope
Common NameBlue-based Theope
Scientific NameTheope basilea
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsblue, brown, black
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America
Host PlantsInga species, Fabaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, slug-shaped larva, chrysalis, and adult. Larvae typically feed on host plants.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the plain brown ventral hindwing with a prominent blue-ringed black spot, and the iridescent blue dorsal wings (if visible).
Description
A small butterfly with brilliant iridescent blue dorsal wings and dark margins. The ventral side is plain brown, featuring a distinctive black spot encircled by blue near the hindwing tornus.
